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Course Description | Welding
is the most common way to permanently join metals. It involves the
application of heat to melt and fuse the metals together, forming a permanent
bond. The welder controls the amount of heat and the size of the
melted area and adds the proper amount of filler material to form a strong
joint. Because of its strength, welding is used to build and repair
ships, automobiles, spacecraft and thousands of other manufactured things.
Skilled welders must use all types of welding equipment in a variety of positions. They must be able to read drawings or diagrams and to analyze damaged metal to determine the proper equipment and technique to use. The two-year Welding program teaches students about welding and metals. They learn to read blueprints, set up equipment and to weld in various positions, including flat, vertical, horizontal and overhead. In addition, students learn about automated welding, robotics, lasers and plastic welding. |
| Characteristics | Students who enroll in Welding should be in good physical condition. Manual dexterity, a steady hand and good eyesight are important (corrective lenses are acceptable). Students should be willing to perform hot, heavy work in tight places or at heights. Students interested in Welding might consider taking such courses as applied math, mechanical drawing, physics and chemistry while in high school. | |
| Employment
Opportunities |
The large shipbuilding industry in our area makes Welding an especially important trade here. However, robots and automated welding machines have eliminated many of the routine jobs, leaving the less routine and more difficult jobs for human welders. This means that welders may need to demonstrate greater skill and knowledge in order to compete in the job market. | |
| Youth Organization |
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